IMS and Other Thoughts After a Long Time Away

21Feb

It’s been a long time since my last post. In July I took on a new role at my company and just haven’t been able to get back into a rhythm with writing and riding since then. Most of my riding in the second half of the year was commuting so nothing exciting there.

Part of my reason for not posting was also that I like to write really finished article style posts. I figure if people are going to read posts on this site the content should be worth their time. I’m slowly coming to the realization that not every post has to take weeks to pull together and edit. It is a blog after all. And it’s free. And it’s mine. So, it really can be whatever I want it to be. I was recently reminded that good content along with consistency is really the key here. I’m going to try harder to do both this year.

The most recent motorcycle related event that’s happened in the past few months was attending the IMS in Washington DC. I always try to make this show every year in January. It’s the perfect way to get a dose of motorcycle excitement in the middle of winter.

There were two bikes that stood out to me at the show.

2015 Kawasaki Versys 1000LT.

I am finding myself drawn to the 1000 cc range of bikes that are coming out in the market. They are powerful, agile, and comfortable. The Versys, was all of those things. At least from what I could glean from marketing materials and sitting on the bike for longer than was probably appropriate by the looks I was getting from the booth reps. The bags are a little smaller (28 liter) than those on my Connie 14, but they are large enough to be useful. There’s also an aftermarket top case, so no worries on storage. It has all the technology that I’m looking for in a bike: ABS, traction control, multiple riding modes. All the fun stuff. I also really love the orange color. The Versys is sized well for me too. The reach to the bars from the seat is perfect. No lean over at all (for me). I’m going to try and find an enterprising dealer this summer and see if I can get a ride on one.

The other motorcycle the continues to catch my attention is the Super Tenere. Everytime I sit on this bike it just seems to fit. It pushes all my buttons too. Electronic suspension, ABS, traction control, multiple fuel maps. Being an “Adventure” bike it has an upright sitting position and easy ergonomics. I know that both of these bikes fit the adventure/off road style of bike that’s become very popular, but that’s not what really draws me. I also think that the reason these style of bikes have “become” popular is that there are no standard bikes anymore. If you want neutral handling, comfortable all day riding bike you have to buy one of these adventure style bikes. I’m fine with that. I’m more interested in comfort for long rides, flexibility, and utility.

One response to “IMS and Other Thoughts After a Long Time Away”

That Super Tenere really surprised me at IMS this year too. That was the bike my wife thought was the most comfortable, totally threw me. Yamaha has done a pretty good job of adding the last few bits to make the Tenere competitive against the GS, and with a big savings. I had pretty much written it off as a street only bike based on 2014 reviews, but it sounds like they have it tuned in as a legitimate DS (as much as a 600 lb. bike can be).

Keeping the faith of fanatics who feel fired up for anything motorcycles. It’s all about the journey and the philosophy of riding on two wheels. Let’s bring alive the truly unique culture of motorcycling and never let the ride leave the fibers of our being.